Radiation for Breast Cancer

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses beams of intense
energy to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy most often gets its
power from x-rays, but the power may also come from protons or other types
of energy. Radiation is one of the most common treatments for cancer.
Radiation therapy for cancer can be given alone or used in combination
with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

How Radiation Is Delivered

There are three primary ways to deliver radiation for cancer:

External radiation. Also known as external beam radiation, this uses a machine that directs
high-energy rays from outside the body into the tumor.

Internal radiation. Also known as brachytherapy, this type of radiation therapy uses a radiation
source that’s usually sealed in an implant, which is then placed
very close to or inside the tumor. In addition to minimizing the dose
of radiation to surrounding healthy tissue, internal radiation therapy
allows a higher dose of radiation in a smaller area.

Systemic radiation. Also known as radiopharmaceuticals, this type of radiation uses radioactive
drugs which are put into a vein or given by mouth.

The type of radiation used depends on type and location of the cancer.

When Is Radiation Needed?

Some women with breast cancer will need radiation, often in addition to
other treatments. The need for radiation will depend on the type of surgery
performed, the patient’s age and whether the breast cancer has spread
to the lymph nodes or elsewhere in the body.

Radiation for breast cancer may be used:

After breast-conserving surgery, to help lower the likelihood that the
cancer will return in the breast or nearby lymph nodes

After a mastectomy, especially if the cancer was larger than five centimeters,
or if cancer is found in the lymph nodes

If cancer has spread to other parts of the body

Either external or internal radiation may be used for breast cancer.

Side Effects

Early side effects of external radiation may include:

Swelling and heaviness in the breast

Skin changes in the treated area

Fatigue

Long-term side effects of external radiation may include:

Change in the size and firmness of the breast

Problems breastfeeding

Damage to nerves in the arm, which can lead to numbness, pain and weakness
in the shoulder, arm and hand